A version slouches
in frame
I pause, make eye contact
ridiculous
far too old for expectations
too wise to hope
and yet, I pause
need for validation
relentless

as though to pull on a sweater
she shrugs dismissal
“another blue room”

I consider hurling explanations
expletives
against shoulder blades’
retreat

but turn
stir silence
continue
brush shelter’s withins
shades of encroachment
and storm